Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on Dutch in Cardiff and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using mobile applications, you have 4 main opportunities for learning Dutch interactively in Cardiff. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, research centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are a little more affordable.) Your other option can be local private language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Fourth, you can choose a private Dutch tutor in Cardiff. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Cardiff and online Dutch tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Dutch and what do Dutch tutors charge?
For university and college courses you can estimate Dutch course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for fifty or so lesson hours each semester. Language schools and private Dutch tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Dutch tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 36 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, ratings and popularity. Average student satisfaction for Dutch lessons on Preply is 4.93 out of 5 stars.
📚 What are the requirements for Dutch language skill level to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared to show a language test profeciency score or take an entrance test to determine your level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and testing, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Dutch tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Dutch so difficult and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Dutch. Realistically, you can gain basic Dutch fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand most expressions, be understood when you talk, shop and place orders in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Dutch. After mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Dutch tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to master Dutch?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Dutch will take at least 600 hours of active use. The required duration of time can differ by a lot depending on your already acquired level of Dutch or proficiency in other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch TV, write using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Dutch out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Dutch classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Dutch tutor?
In language learning academies, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, of course! The largest selection of verified Dutch tutors with video profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges typically schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools typically give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, the number of lessons is really up to you, with early morning, day, evening and night classes available, on weekdays and/or weekends.